‘It’s true’ – Wrinkle in Man Utd pursuit of Ten Hag confirmed despite ‘positive’ move

A trusted source has provided a fresh update on the chances of Man Utd appointing Erik Ten Hag, and stated recent claims from the Dutch press are “true”.

Manchester United will appoint a permanent manager this summer to succeed Ralf Rangnick. Whether United are in need of a fresh coat of paint or a complete rebuild is open to debate. However, the type of manager they’re drawing the strongest links with would suggest it’s the latter.

Indeed, PSG’s Mauricio Pochettino and Ajax’s Erik Ten Hag are the current frontrunners to land the role.

Both have worked wonders when given time to transform a club.

Pochettino turned Tottenham from top four hopefuls to contenders for both the Premier League and Champions League. Ten Hag, meanwhile, has ensured Ajax have remained the dominant force in the Netherlands and has overseen the development of some of Europe’s finest stars.

The Daily Mail recently claimed both managers are expected to leave their current clubs one way or another this summer.

United interviewed Ten Hag last Monday, while Pochettino has been in contact with club chief Richard Arnold.

However, the Mail report also suggested United are not alone in chasing the two bosses. And if they delay further in selecting their man, one – or both – could be off the market by the time a decision comes.

Now, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has provided his take on United’s managerial hunt.

Budget, transfers discussed in “positive” Ten Hag interview

Romano claimed Ten Hag’s meeting with United was a “positive” one and stated the topics of budget and transfers were discussed. However, he noted it’s “true” that Ten Hag has at least two other offers on the table.

“Top of [Man Utd’s] list is Ten Hag and Pochettino,” Romano told his YouTube channel.

“The meeting with Ten Hag was a positive one. Both he and Pochettino are waiting to understand Man Utd’s position.

“Ten Hag spoke with United about the budget and potential signings, about the idea of the club for their project. But both parties are waiting on a final decision.”

Addressing reports from the Dutch press claiming Ten Hag has been targeted by two further elite European sides, Romano added: “It’s correct. It’s true.

“Ten Hag has two more clubs interested in him for next season. This is why everything is open at the moment for his future.

Erik ten Hag and Manchester United hold talks about manager position

Ajax manager Erik ten Hag has met with Manchester United and had positive talks about becoming the new Man United manager

“The interview with United was positive but nothing has been agreed yet.”

Romano rounded out his video by confirming Bruno Fernandes will soon pen an extension that will keep him at Old Trafford until 2027.

He also noted Ten Hag’s potential appointment could give fellow Dutchman Donny Van de Beek a new lease of life in Manchester.

The midfielder has struggled since leaving Ajax in 2020, culminating in his loan exit to Everton in January.

However, there is no option to buy within that deal, and one school of thought suggests Ten Hag may be the man to prise the best out of Van de Beek once he returns.